How to Know If Your Texas Roof Has Hail Damage

Published: June 12, 2024

Texas is notorious for its severe weather, and hailstorms are a major threat to your home's roof. Unfortunately, hail damage isn't always obvious from the ground. Ignoring it can lead to leaks, water damage, and costly repairs down the line. Here’s a quick guide to help you identify potential hail damage after a storm.

1. Check Your Gutters and Downspouts

Your gutters are one of the first places to look. Hailstones can dent aluminum gutters, downspouts, and gutter screens. These dents are a strong indicator that your roof likely sustained damage as well. Also, look for an excessive amount of granules in your gutters. These are the sandpaper-like particles from your shingles, and significant loss indicates forceful impact.

2. Inspect Siding and Outdoor Items

Walk around your property. Is there damage to your siding, window screens, or air conditioning unit? Hail that's powerful enough to dent your AC fins or crack your vinyl siding is certainly powerful enough to damage your shingles. Don't forget to check painted wood surfaces for chips or dings.

3. Look for "Bruised" Shingles

This is the most direct sign of hail damage but can be the hardest to see. A hail impact on an asphalt shingle looks like a dark spot or "bruise" where the granules have been knocked away. The spot might feel soft to the touch, like the bruise on an apple. Warning: We do not recommend getting on your roof yourself. It can be dangerous, and you could cause more damage. It's best to call a professional for a safe and accurate inspection.

What to Do if You Suspect Hail Damage

If you notice any of these signs, your next step is to call a trusted, local roofing contractor for a professional inspection. At Blue Square Roofing, we offer free, no-obligation hail damage inspections across Central Texas.

We'll provide you with a detailed report and photo evidence of any damage we find. If a repair or replacement is needed, we have extensive experience working with all major insurance carriers to help you navigate the claims process and restore your roof to its optimal condition.